Electric shuttles to provide free rides around Downtown Manhattan

Downtown Manhattan denizens and visitors alike now have a new way to get around the district through a new shuttle program.

The Green Apple Bike program recently unveiled the Downtown Area Shuttle, also known by the acronym DASH, to provide free rides around downtown. According to posts on the Green Apple Bikes Facebook page and website, the service is a continuation of its vision of increasing personal mobility in the city in addition to reducing traffic in high congestion points.

The DASH is a fully-electric, 5-passenger shuttle. According to GAB, it features three point seatbelts as well as high backseats and is designed to provide ample leg room. According to a comment by the official GAB Facebook account, the shuttle cannot accommodate wheelchair users.

For the time being, the shuttle will run in the evenings and much of the day during the weekend — but hours are based on volunteer numbers. Monday through Thursday, 4 to 9 p.m.; Friday, 4 to 10 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday, Noon to 10 p.m.

They are also still looking for volunteers to drive the DASH. They are looking for people ages 21 and up with clean driving records and knowledge of smartphones and mobile apps. More information can be found on their website.

To get a ride around downtown during DASH hours of operation, text (785) 379-DASH — or just wave them down when you see them.

About Author

Local government reporter, sometimes host/producer of the KMAN Morning Show. 2017 Long Beach State graduate in Journalism/Native American cultures. Los Angeles County born and raised. Nick can be reached at Nick@1350KMAN.com.